NAFO recommends reduction of cod catch at Flemish Cap in Canada

NAFO, the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization, has recommended a reduction of approximately 800 tons in the total allowable catch (TAC) for cod next year at Flemish Cap.

Petur Steingrund, a fisheries scientist at the Faroe Islands Marine Research Institute (Havstovan), notes that the cod stock at Flemish Cap is currently healthy. However, he believes this recommendation from NAFO serves as a precautionary measure.

“There is growing caution regarding fishing pressure,” he stated, pointing out that Canada has faced significant challenges with overfishing cod stocks in the past.

Steingrund emphasizes the importance of maintaining sustainable fishing practices to ensure the longevity of the cod populations in the North Atlantic. The suggested decrease in TAC reflects a shift in management strategies, prioritizing the health of fish stocks over short-term fishing yields.

This cautious approach is underscored by international lessons learned regarding the impacts of intensive fishing practices. As fisheries management continues to evolve, the emphasis on sustainability is becoming increasingly paramount in the regulatory decisions made by organizations like NAFO.

For further insights, a recorded interview with Petur Steingrund discussing these findings and their implications for the fishing industry can be accessed.